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New Delhi: A photograph has surfaced on social media showing US President Donald Trump holding a signed “Make Iran Great Again” hat while posing with Republican Senator Lindsey Graham. The image has emerged at a time when Iran is witnessing widespread protests against the central government over alleged political and economic corruption.
The photo was shared by Senator Graham on his X account. In the image, Graham is seen giving a thumbs-up next to Trump, who is holding a black hat bearing his signature. Sharing the post, Graham wrote, “Another great day with @POTUS, who has brought America back stronger than ever, at home and abroad.” He added, “God bless our Commander in Chief and all of the brave people of Iran who are standing up to tyranny.”
Iran has been gripped by demonstrations over economic issues since December 28, with protests spreading to more than 220 locations across the country. Amid the unrest, at least 20 people, including three children, have been killed, with security forces accused of “indiscriminate targeting,” according to a human rights group.
Around 1,000 people have been arrested, including at least 40 minors, during eight days of ongoing protests, as rights groups accuse the regime’s security forces of targeting civilians indiscriminately.
The nationwide uprising erupted following the collapse of Iran’s currency and sharp increases in the prices of basic necessities. Protests have been reported in at least 78 cities and 222 locations, with demonstrators calling for an end to the regime, according to the US-based Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRAI).
The protests continued over the weekend despite an intensified crackdown by security forces, following comments by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who referred to protesters as “rioters.” According to HRAI, at least 990 people have been arrested and 20 killed so far.
The photograph has raised questions about whether the US is planning further action against Iran, particularly following the recent capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a key ally of Tehran. Tensions have also escalated after the US joined Israel in attacking Iran in June, bombing three of the country’s main nuclear sites. Iran responded by firing missiles at a US airbase in Doha, causing damage but no reported casualties.
